Component supplier Accuride has launched its EverSteel wheel technology designed to prevent corrosion in steel wheels, the company announced at Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week in Las Vegas.

EverSteel is applied with a four-phase coating process designed to improve wheel durability and service life. In independent tests, EverSteel demonstrated double the operational life of Accruide’s own Steel Armor steel wheels and as much as six times longer than its competitors, according to Accuride.

Wheels with EverSteel are suited for trailer applications and fleets operating in ice and snow because of its resistance to corrosion.

Compared to traditional steel wheels which must be refinished every three years, due to corrosion from road salt and de-icing chemicals, EverSteel can delay the onset of corrosion for up to eight years, said the company.

EverSteel wheels used in combination with Accuride’s Wheel Guard separator carry a warranty against rust damage for 5 years from the date of manufacture indicated on the wheel.

The technology is available initially on two Accuride 22.5 x 8.25 steel wheels: 50408 (2 hand hole) and 50487 (5 hand hole). The wheels will be available for order by Feb. 1.

Additionally, Accuride announced two lightweight aluminum wheels, to be available in April. Designed for weight savings of up to 7%, the aluminum wheels are both standard type 22.5 x 9.00 wheels.

Designated with the part number 41730, the aluminum wheel replaces the previous part number 29730 and features a reduced weight of 4 pounds. The other wheel has the 41012 part number and replaces the 40012 wheel. It features a reduced weight of 3 pounds.

Accuride is refining its product designs with total weight, fuel economy and emissions in mind, according to Rick Dauch, Accuride’s president and CEO.